Xplor Park Tours: Underground Rivers, Ziplines & Jungle Thrills in Riviera Maya
Discover Xplor Park Through Guided Tours
Xplor Park Tours offer one of the most exhilarating ways to explore the natural beauty and subterranean wonders of the Riviera Maya. Located just outside Playa del Carmen, this eco-adventure park combines adrenaline-pumping activities with Mexico’s unique limestone geography — think ziplining over the jungle, rafting through underground rivers, and driving amphibious vehicles through caves and mud trails.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeking couple, an adventurous family, or a solo traveler craving a high-energy day, Xplor is a must-visit. With well-organized tours, all-inclusive amenities, and bilingual guides, it’s one of the best ways to experience the Riviera’s wild side.
Need more local travel ideas? See our full Riviera Maya Travel Guide.
Planning Your Xplor Park Tour Experience
Planning a trip to Xplor is easy — most tours include transportation, meals, and access to all activities. Here’s what to know:
- Tour Duration: Full-day tours (~8 hours) are standard, often including round-trip transport from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, or Tulum.
- Types of Tickets:
- Day Pass: Includes all six main activities, buffet lunch, snacks, and locker.
- Xplor Fuego: A night version with torch-lit paths and nighttime ziplining — more atmospheric and less crowded.
- Private vs. Group Tours: Most are group-based, but private transport and VIP upgrades are available.
Tip: Wear water shoes, bring dry clothes, and go early to beat the heat.
Where to Start: Highlights of Xplor Park
As you enter, you’ll be handed a helmet with a chip that activates photos throughout the park — no phone required during adventure time. Here’s how the park is laid out:
- Zipline Circuits: Start at the central tower and soar over the jungle canopy, including a water landing.
- Underground River Swim & Rafting: Navigate stalactite-filled caves by paddle or swim — the park’s most ethereal experience.
- Amphibious Vehicles: Drive through jungle trails, tunnels, and muddy terrain.
- Hammock Splash: A fun, low-key zipline into a cenote-style pool — great for families or a quick cool-off.
Best Zones for Touring Inside Xplor
1. Zipline Circuit
Xplor’s crown jewel — the highest zip lines in Riviera Maya. Choose between two 7-line routes, ending in water splashes.
2. Stalactite River Swim
A surreal experience as you float/swim through naturally lit underground chambers. Water temps are refreshing (~75°F/24°C).
3. Rafting Caves
Use hand paddles to steer your individual raft through maze-like waterways. A quiet, magical journey under the surface.
4. Amphibious Vehicle Trails
Drive your own 4×4 jeep-like vehicle through caves, bridges, and puddles. Must be 18+ with a valid license to drive.
5. Xplor Fuego (Night Tours)
Same adventure, different ambiance. Torches and fire-lit pathways make it an entirely new park after dark.
Top-Rated Experiences & Must-Try Activities
- High-Speed Ziplining: Includes the “Toboganxote” — a spiral water slide combined with a zipline finale.
- Hammock Splash: Perfect for a quick thrill and refreshing splash between heavier attractions.
- All-You-Can-Eat Buffet: Included with your ticket — fresh Mexican cuisine, smoothies, and dessert bars.
- Xplor Fuego Zipline at Night: Gliding through fire-lit jungle trails is an unforgettable experience.
Editor’s Picks: Recommended Xplor Park Experiences
- Early Entry Guided Tour — Ideal for those wanting fewer crowds and personalized intro to each activity.
- Photo Package Add-On — Digital access to over 100 auto-captured images across the park. Worth it for hassle-free memories.
- Xplor + Xcaret Combo Pass — Explore culture and adventure by pairing two of Riviera Maya’s top parks.
Traveler Favorites: Most Popular Xplor Tours
- Xplor Full-Day Adventure with Transport from Cancun: Includes AC coach, guide, and park admission. Rated 4.9 stars across thousands of reviews.
- Xplor Fuego Night Access: Great for couples or teens seeking evening excitement and cooler temps.
- Xplor + Tulum Ruins Combo Tour: Visit ancient Mayan ruins in the morning, then cool off with underground rivers in the afternoon.
“This park receives 4.8 stars on average from over 10,000 reviewers, known for its safety, cleanliness, and non-stop fun.”
- Underground Selfie Caverns: Some tunnels have quiet alcoves and cinematic lighting — ideal for quick, secret photo ops.
- Cave Music Zones: Listen closely — some cave areas have ambient music to enhance the underground vibe.
- Jungle Overlook Points: Short detours on zipline stairs reveal panoramic jungle views — perfect for a mindful pause.
Tour Itineraries: Sample Day Plans at Xplor
Itinerary 1: Classic Day Tour
- Morning: Zipline circuit + Amphibious vehicle.
- Afternoon: Buffet lunch + River swim + Hammock splash.
Itinerary 2: Xplor Fuego Night Tour
- 5:30 PM: Arrival and orientation.
- 6:00 PM: Fire-lit rafting and ziplines.
- 8:00 PM: Night buffet + Amphibious drive under stars.
When to Visit: Best Time for Xplor Park Tours
- Dry Season (Nov–Apr): Best weather, cooler temps, peak demand — book early.
- May–June: Fewer crowds, great for shoulder-season pricing.
- July–Aug: Hot but manageable — go early and hydrate.
- Sept–Oct: Rainy season but open year-round. Indoor cave activities are unaffected.
Travel Health & Safety Tips for Touring Xplor
- No sunscreen allowed (even biodegradable) in water areas — shower stations available before entry.
- Water stations are available throughout the park — refill your bottle often.
- Life vests and helmets are mandatory and provided.
- Lockers and changing areas included in ticket.
- Tipping: Not required inside, but appreciated for transport or guides.
Getting Around During Your Xplor Tour
- Pickup Points: Most tours offer hotel or central meeting point pickups from Cancun, Tulum, or Playa del Carmen.
- On-site Navigation: Clearly marked trails, staff guidance, and color-coded helmets help orient guests.
- Accessibility: Not ideal for wheelchairs or mobility-limited guests due to stairs, mud, and water elements.
Where to Stay While Visiting Xplor Park
- Playa del Carmen: Closest to the park (10 min drive); many hotels offer tour shuttles.
- Tulum: About 45 minutes away; good for combining eco tours.
- Cancun: Around 1.5 hours away; ideal for day trips.
Look for resorts that offer Xcaret package deals, including park access, shuttle, and bundled experiences.
Nearby Attractions to Pair with Xplor
- Xcaret Park: Culture-focused park next door with Mexican traditions, wildlife, and shows.
- Xenses Park: A half-day sensory park perfect for families or those short on time.
- Cenote Route (Ruta de los Cenotes): Explore natural sinkholes near Puerto Morelos for more water fun.
Extend Your Adventure: Visiting Nearby Regions
- Tulum: Add Mayan ruins, beach clubs, or cenote dives.
- Isla Mujeres: Day trip for snorkeling and catamaran tours.
- Cozumel: Accessible via ferry from Playa — great for scuba diving.
Some tour providers offer multi-day combo passes for all major Riviera parks.
Entry Requirements & Travel Regulations
- Park Ticket: Required and best booked online in advance for discounts.
- Transportation Add-on: Confirm your hotel’s location for pickup eligibility.
- Identification: Bring a photo ID or passport for entry and driving the amphibious vehicle.
- COVID-19: Hygiene protocols in place but no current restrictions as of 2025.
Hacks & Insider Tips for Xplor Park Tours
- Bring a GoPro with waterproof mount — helmets have camera clips.
- Wear rash guards or quick-dry clothing — better than swimsuits alone.
- Use the second zipline circuit first — it’s longer and gets busier by noon.
- Eat lunch after 2 PM for shorter buffet lines.
- Buy combo park passes if visiting multiple Xcaret attractions — they save money.
Recap & Planning Tips for Xplor Park Tours
Xplor Park is the Riviera Maya’s adrenaline capital — combining nature, culture, and excitement in one epic experience. Whether you zip through tree canopies, paddle silent caves, or drive wild jungle trails, a day here is anything but ordinary.
Still choosing your Mexico adventure? Browse our Riviera Maya Travel Guide for more ideas and planning tools.
Discover tours, activities, and immersive experiences to make the most of your trip. When you book through our affiliate links, you help support our blog — at no extra cost to you.